NASA is returning to the Moon. Through lectures, discussion, and projects, this course provides a comprehensive survey of the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of lunar exploration from the distant past to the near future. Topics include the history of lunar exploration, the Moon’s orbit, analytical laboratory techniques, remote sensing techniques, in situ resource utilization, and much more. For each topic, the background and underlying physics are described and solutions discussed. References for in depth analysis are also provided. Comprehensive discussions re-enforce critical concepts each week. Students will engage in four projects over the course that will explore the Moon’s orbit, conceptualize a lunar orbiter, and produce hypothetical exploration missions placed in the 1970s and today. Students will discuss the physical consequences for errors and misconceptions of the Moon and lunar exploration in popular media. These projects will require students to engage in a range of individual and team presentation formats. Upon completion, students will be well-situated to identify companion courses in the curriculum for follow-on in depth, quantitative skills development.